You made the connection. A potential new member stopped by your club’s fair table, scanned your QR code and came to the first meeting. Now they’re officially in the room. 

So, what happens next? 

It’s time to draw them in. The goal is simple: Create an experience worth returning for. We want potential members to see the value of Circle K International, feel like they belong and find something that makes them excited to come back. 

Showing up 

One of the easiest ways to make new members feel welcome is to simply be there. Current members should try to attend meetings, introduce themselves to new members, sit with them and invite them into conversations. In a room where everyone seems to know one another, a friendly face can make all the difference. 

But attendance is only the beginning. Members need to find value in their CKI experience.  

Ask yourself: What are members getting from being part of our club? Maybe it’s meaningful service. Maybe it’s leadership experience. Maybe it’s friendship, networking, professional development or simply having a place to belong on campus. 

Your club doesn’t have to provide everything to everyone. Instead, create opportunities for members to discover what they value most. 

Let members choose their passion 

One way to create ownership is to let members choose where they want to make an impact. At one of your first meetings of the year, give members an overview of the big events, service projects, fundraisers and activities your club has planned. 

Then turn your meeting space into a CKI opportunity fair! 

Create a different station for each major project or event. At each station, provide a quick overview of the project, what it involves and how members can help. Let members walk around, ask questions and identify the opportunities that excite them. 

They might also meet other people interested in the project. These stations can then become planning committees.  

Instead of simply telling members what they need to do, you are giving them the opportunity to say, “This is something I care about. I want to be part of making it happen.” 

That creates ownership. And when members help plan a project they’re passionate about, they’re more likely to stay engaged and take on responsibility. And they’ll feel like a valued part of the club. 

A reason to come back 

Not every CKI meeting needs to look the same. Planning meetings and service projects are important, but mix things up throughout the year. Give members opportunities to connect outside of your regular meeting space. Some of the best CKI memories happen when members are simply spending time together. 

Try an ice cream social at a local shop or campus dining location. Attend a campus movie night together. Grab coffee before class. Have a game night. Meet at the library for a study break during finals week. 

Change the location. Change the activity. Change the routine. A little variety can keep members excited about what’s coming next. 

New-member buddy system 

Starting college can be overwhelming. Joining a new organization can be, too. A new-member buddy system is a simple way to help make that transition easier. 

During your first meeting, make an effort to have returning members meet the new members. Then pair each new member with a returning member who can serve as their CKI buddy for the first few weeks. For the next two or three meetings, that returning member can: 

  • Send a quick reminder about the next meeting. 
  • Share upcoming service opportunities or deadlines. 
  • Help answer questions about CKI. 
  • Invite their buddy to grab coffee or lunch on campus. 
  • Introduce them to other members. 
  • Check in if they miss a meeting. 
  • Help them get connected to a project or committee. 

Keep in mind, this should not be a one-way relationship. The goal is to build a connection, not create another task for your members. 

Make members feel needed 

People are more likely to stay when they know they matter. Give members meaningful opportunities to contribute. Ask for their ideas. Let them lead a portion of the meeting. Give them responsibility for a service project. Celebrate their accomplishments. Ask what they would like to see the club do. 

And don’t overlook the small things. Learn their name. Remember what they are studying. Ask how their week is going. Celebrate when they finish a big exam. Invite them to sit with you. Membership retention is often built through small moments of connection.  

Remember, the recruiting process doesn’t end when someone walks through the door. In fact, that’s when the real work begins.